Interactionist Approach - Diathesis Stress Model

Question 1

What is the interactionist approach?
(AO1 - Intro)

Answer 1

Interactionist approach suggests sz is developed due to combo of biological, psychological and social factors
- this is the diathesis stress model

Question 2

Define diathesis

Answer 2

Vulnerability (at risk)

Question 3

Define stress

Answer 3

Negative psychological experience

Question 4

Who developed the diathesis - stress model?

Answer 4

Meehl

Question 5

Describe meehls original model of the diathesis - stress model
(AO1)

Answer 5

• in original model, diathesis was entirely genetic
• vulnerability to sz was due to a single schizophrenic gene, making indv sensitive to stress
• meehl suggested if this gene isnt present, no amount of stress would lead to sz
• however if gene was present, stress in childhood (like schizophrenogenic mother) could lead to sz

Question 6

Describe the modern explanation of diathesis
(AO1)

Answer 6

• now believed theres no single schizogene but many genes that can increase vulnerability to sz (polygenic)
• also believed other factors can be a diathesis such as psychological trauma including early and severe truma
• e.g. child abuse can seriously affect aspects of brain development and make indv more vulnerable to later stress

Question 7

Describe the modern explanation of stress
(AO1)

Answer 7

• modern definition of stress suggests anything from env risks triggering sz, not just parenting
• research has suggested cannabis use is a factor
• in D.S.M, cannabis is a stressor as it increases risk of sz upto 7 times due to its interference with dopamine system
• however not everyone develops sz after cannabis use suggesting theres more vulnerability factors

Question 8

What does the diathesis stress model suggest about treating sz?

Answer 8

• as interactionist model considers bio and psyc factors in development of sz
• bio and psyc treatments for sz can also be used
• the combo of CBT, family therapy and drug therapy are combined to increase effectiveness

Question 9

What does turkington argue about the interactionist approach into treating sz?

Answer 9

• turkington argues its possible to believe in bio causes of sz and still do CBT to relieve psychological symptoms
• however this requires believing in interactionist model
• its not possible to believe in just a bio approach and tell patient their condition is purely bio and theres no psychological significance to symptoms, and then treat them with CBT (psychological treatment)

Question 10

What are the three peels to evaluate interactionist approach?

Answer 10

RTS - comparison between genetic vulnerability and family dysfunction

Weakness - indv differences

RTS - effectiveness of bio and psyc therapies